UpTrajectory Review
Elisia Flores, now at the helm of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, reflects on her journey from childhood observer to company leader. Her experiences alongside her father instilled a deep understanding of the business, which she now aims to honor while steering it toward future growth. Flores emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with franchisees, asserting that their success is integral to the brand's legacy.
For small business operators, Flores' commitment to franchisee empowerment is a crucial takeaway. In a landscape where accessibility and inclusivity are increasingly vital, her approach can serve as a model for others looking to modernize their strategies without losing sight of their foundational values. Operators should consider how they can similarly advocate for their franchisees and foster a culture of collaboration and support.
“We’ve worked hard to make franchise ownership more accessible, especially to underrepresented communities” — Global Franchise
Takeaway: Empower your franchisees and prioritize their success to strengthen your business's foundation.
Excerpt from the original — Global Franchise
Growing up, I spent much of my childhood by my dad’s side, accompanying him as he worked tirelessly for L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. Those early experiences gave me an innate sense that I would one day be involved in the business. Looking back, I think my younger self would be most surprised to know that I would eventually lead the entire company.
I was just a curious kid at the front counter, watching my dad in action – and now, I have the opportunity to continue the work he and my Uncle Johnson started, and to help guide L&L toward new heights. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and I’m grateful for the foundation they built.
There were certainly challenges in making my mark on the business – particularly in understanding how the founders built L&L into what it was when I joined the company, and how I could honor that legacy while shaping it through my own …